How to Prevent Burnout

​A recent LinkedIn study shows that globally burnout signals have spiked by 9% in the last few months and employee happiness has fallen by 3%.The most important priority for candidates when choosing a new role is now work/life balance, ahead of compensation and benefits, culture, management and job security.

With recent lockdowns, the lines between work and home life have blurred and many people I am speaking with are finding they are working longer hours, expectations are higher, and, in many instances, they are juggling childcare and other personal priorities, as well as the mental strain and emotional uncertainty of the lockdown.There is a general feeling of lockdown fatigue across New Zealand and particularly in Auckland.

So, what can we do to prevent burnout?

Exercise and get some fresh air – Whether it’s a workout in the morning or getting outside for a 20-minute walk at lunchtime, movement will help to clear your head ready to refocus.

Take regular breaks – Try and work in time blocks of a maximum of two hours, with a 15-minute break in between. Go for a walk, stretch, make a snack, cup of coffee or catch up with a friend, anything that takes your mind off work before you settle back in for your next stint.

Separate work and home life – try and switch off at a designated time and keep a clear boundary between work and home life. If you have a separate workspace, shut the door, or if not put away your laptop and work tools so you can mentally switch off.

Social Contact – even if you have zoom and phone fatigue, it’s important to still connect with friends and family and engage in conversations that aren’t work related. Also, check in on others to make sure they are coping okay.

Keep a routine – Try and stick to your normal routine; workout, shower, get dressed, this all helps with your mental state and wellbeing.

Be realistic – You must be realistic with your expectations of yourself and of others. These are unprecedented times and not normal circumstances. We will have good days and bad days and that is totally fine.

Ask for help - Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help or speak up if unreasonable demands are being made on you, if you’re struggling mentally, or juggling childcare and unable to perform at your normal level.

​

And be kind, to yourself and others.